Strategies

Earn a Ph.D. to teach and research at four-year institutions. The interdisciplinary nature of Asian Studies makes it good preparation for advanced education in a variety of fields.

Obtain a master’s degree in student affairs or library/ information science to prepare for those fields.If interested in K-12 teaching, fulfill requirements for certification. This may involve a double major or a minor. Research alternative paths to certification such as Teach for America and other similar programs.

Get involved in leadership roles on campus including peer mentor, resident advisor, or orientation leader.

Join related professional associations as a student member.

Interact with students from Asia and the Middle East. Participate in international programming on campus.

Strategies

Pair an interest in Asian Studies with communication skills to write about Asia, write on topics of interest to minorities, or for publications targeting an Asian audience.

Study a second field such as journalism, English, or broadcasting to prepare for career in media.

For positions in the arts, consider a minor in art history. Plan to pursue a relevant graduate degree such as museum studies.

Write for campus publications such as college newspapers, magazines, or department/program newsletters. Work at campus radio or television stations.

Intern with a publishing house, magazine, radio or television station depending upon area of interest.

Create a portfolio of writing samples, especially those that have been published. For other areas, create a website or digital portfolio to promote skills to potential employers.

Seek opportunities for recognition and networking through writing contests and freelance writing submissions.

Become familiar with the proposal and submission process involved in freelance writing.

When job searching, research media outlets to find those that target Asian populations.

Volunteer in local museums or galleries.

Travel to Asian countries and visit local museums and cultural attractions.

General Information and Strategies

Asian Studies provides an interdisciplinary background that helps students develop analytical, critical thinking, and writing skills while gaining knowledge about the cultures, histories, and languages of Asian countries.

When paired with a major in another field, Asian Studies can enhance the employability of a student because of a deeper understanding of the Asian experience which many organizations will value. Training in this field can lead to a better appreciation of certain customers or clients.

Some students may choose to pursue Asian Studies because they enjoy the subject but wish to pursue careers requiring “any major.” In this scenario, it is critical to develop skills relevant to targeted field through internships, part-time or summer jobs, or volunteer experiences.

Asian Studies majors are excellent candidates for a number of graduate school options because of their broad liberal arts background as well as specific interests that may set them apart from other students. For those wishing to pursue graduate education, maintain a high GPA, establish relationships with faculty to secure strong recommendations, and gain experience through volunteer, work, or research opportunities.

Travel as much as possible to Asia to experience it first-hand. Complete at least one study abroad experience. In the U.S., look for ways to interact with people from Asia who are living in or visiting the States.

More job opportunities may exist in parts of the United States where the Asian population is the largest or growing such as California, Washington, and New York.

Read and stay abreast of politics and current events in regions of interest.